Compositions and methods for treating or preventing diseases associated with oxidative stress

ABSTRACT

Methods and compositions for treating various indications by lessening oxidative stress in a patient are provided. A pharmaceutical composition comprises between about 0.001% to about 10.0%), or more specifically between about 0.015% to about 5%, sodium iodine or catalase by weight. The iodine ion or the catalase dissociates hydrogen peroxide into water and molecular oxygen to interrupt biological events that result in negative side effects. The pharmaceutical composition further comprises in some cases a reducing agent or various carrier materials. The pharmaceutical composition is in some cases formulated for a variety of delivery methods.

CROSS-REFERENCE

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/617,501, filed Mar. 29, 2012, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Collagen cross-linking is a parasurgical treatment for multiple ophthalmic disorders. In some cases, collagen cross-linking may also be combined with other treatments to improve corneal strength or optical refraction. Treatment methods include mini asymmetric radial keratotomy, corneal ring segment inserts, or topography-guided laser. Corrective lenses are normally required after these treatments, but with smaller, more normalized prescriptions. Increased corneal symmetry allows for more comfortable contact lens wear, often of daily disposable lenses. Collagen crosslinking limits deterioration of vision, increases unaided and uncorrected vision, and may reduce the need for corneal transplantation.

SUMMARY

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a pharmaceutical composition for treating oxidative stress in an individual in need thereof, comprising (a) 0.001% to 10.0% sodium iodine or catalase by weight, and (b) a pharmaceutically-acceptable excipient. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprises about 0.015% to about 5% sodium iodine or catalase by weight. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprises about 0.001%, about 0.01%, about 0.1%, about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, or about 10% sodium iodide or catalase by weight. In some embodiments, the composition has a basic pH. In some embodiments, the basic pH is between 7 and 8.4. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition further comprises a reducing agent. In some embodiments, the reducing agent is thiosulfate, vitamin C, or sodium bisulfate. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutically-acceptable excipient is a thickener, an oil phase, a surfactant, a preservative, or a pH adjusting agent. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is a solution, emulsion, cream, ointment, lotion, gel, powder, solid, tincture, paste, vapor, tape, or lotion.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a method of treating a disease, disorder or condition characterized by unwanted or excessive oxidative stress in an individual in need thereof, comprising administering to the individual a pharmaceutical composition comprising about 0.001% to about 10.0% sodium iodine or catalase by weight. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprises about 0.015% to about 5% sodium iodine or catalase by weight. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprises about 0.001%, about 0.01%, about 0.1%, about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, or about 10% sodium iodide or catalase by weight. In some embodiments, the composition has a basic pH. In some embodiments, the basic pH is between 7 and 8.4. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition further comprises a reducing agent. In some embodiments, the reducing agent comprises thiosulfate, vitamin C, or sodium bisulfate.

In some embodiments, the disease, disorder or condition is ectasia. In some embodiments, the disease, disorder or condition is Glaucoma; Dry Eyes; Degenerative Retinal Damage (ARMD); Cataractogenesis; Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP); Ocular Uveitis; or Cataracts. In some embodiments, the disease, disorder or condition is Burns, Dermatitis; Psoriasis; Vitiligo, Androgenic Alopecia; or Onset of Gray Hair.

In some embodiments, the disease, disorder or condition is arthritis. In some embodiments, the disease, disorder or condition is Keshan Disease; Myocardial Infarction; Atherosclerosis; Arterial Sclerosis. In some embodiments, the disease, disorder or condition is Asthma; Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS); Hyperoxia and Pulmonary Edema. In some embodiments, the disease, disorder or condition is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD); Crohn's Disease; Ischemic Bowel Disease; Cancer; Inflammatory Immune Response; Diabetes; Injury Ischemia Reflow Injury; Vasospasm; Hemolytic Anemia; Progeria and Progressive Systemic Sclerosis. In some embodiments, the disease, disorder or condition is Hepatic Cirrhosis; Renal Graft; Glomerulonephritis and Endotoxin Liver Injury. In some embodiments, the disease, disorder or condition is Parkinson's Disease; Alzheimer's Disease; Schizophrenia; Cerebral Edema; Cerebral Infarction; Epilepsy; Bipolar Disorder. In some embodiments, the disease, disorder or condition is Wrinkling; Baldness; Presbyopia; Cataracts; Hearing loss; Hypertension; Memory loss.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a method of healing a wound, comprising contacting the wound with a pharmaceutical composition comprising about 0.001% to about 10.0% sodium iodine or catalase by weight. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprises between about 0.015% to about 5% sodium iodine or catalase by weight. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprises about 0.001%, about 0.01%, about 0.1%, about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, or about 10% sodium iodide or catalase by weight. In some embodiments, the composition has a basic pH. In some embodiments, the basic pH is between 7 and 8.4. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition further comprises a reducing agent. In some embodiments, the reducing agent comprises thiosulfate, vitamin C, or sodium bisulfate. In some embodiments, the wound is associated with refractive corneal surgery, thermokeratoplasty treatment, lens-based refractive surgery, retinal surgery, scleral surgery, retinal or glaucoma laser surgery, cataract and eye lid surgery, heart surgery. In some embodiments, the corneal surgery is PRK, LASIK, Intacs, lamellar corneal procedures, CK, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the heart surgery is angioplasty.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a method of reducing or preventing oxidative stress in a tissue undergoing photochemical crosslinking, comprising contacting the tissue with a pharmaceutical composition comprising between about 0.001% to about 10.0% sodium iodine or catalase by weight. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprises between about 0.015% to about 5% sodium iodine or catalase by weight. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprises about 0.001%, about 0.01%, about 0.1%, about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, or about 10% sodium iodide or catalase by weight. In some embodiments, the composition has a basic pH. In some embodiments, the basic pH is between 7 and 8.4. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition further comprises a reducing agent. In some embodiments, the reducing agent comprises thiosulfate, vitamin C, or sodium bisulfate.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are compositions for reducing oxidative stress, comprising iodide ion and a pharmaceutically-acceptable excipient. In some embodiments, the composition is safe. In some embodiments, the composition lessens oxidative stress in vivo. In some embodiments, the composition comprises sodium iodide (NaI). In some embodiments, the composition comprises between about 0.001% to about 10.0% sodium iodide by weight. In specific embodiments, the composition comprises between about 0.015% to about 5% sodium iodide by weight. In some embodiments, the iodide ion is kept in the ionized form by maintaining the composition at a basic pH. In some specific embodiments the pH of the composition is between about 7.0 and about 8.4. Included in the embodiments described herein are all combinations and subcombinations of ranges and specific integers encompassed therein.

Other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become more readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art after reviewing the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

After reading this description it will become apparent to one skilled in the art how to implement the compositions and methods of the present disclosure in various alternative embodiments and alternative applications. However, although various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described herein, it is understood that these embodiments are presented by way of example only, and not limiting. As such, this detailed description of various alternative embodiments should not be construed to limit the scope or breadth of the present disclosure as set forth in the appended claims.

Cells obtain energy from the oxidation of a variety of organic molecules, and oxygen is the primary oxidant in the biochemical reactions that perform this function. Oxidative stress represents an imbalance between the production and manifestation of reactive oxygen species and a biological system's ability to readily detoxify the reactive intermediates or to repair the resulting damage.

In humans, oxidative stress contributes to diseases ranging from Alzheimer's, heart disease and stroke to macular degeneration (the leading cause of adult blindness), dry eye, glaucoma and cancer. However, increased oxidative stress also causes an adaptive reaction which produces increased stress resistance and a long-term reduction of oxidative stress (in a process names mitohormesis). Mitohormesis is associated with the anti-aging effects of glucose restriction and physical exercise.

The compositions of the present disclosure comprise catalase and/or iodide ion, decrease oxidative stress in vivo and exhibit a beneficial or salutary effect on many diseases and health maintenance.

The anti-oxidative compositions described herein are capable of treating, reversing or partially reversing, or preventing diseases associated with oxidative stress due to active oxygen species, free radicals, or the like, in vivo, thereby preventing the occurrence or worsening of a disease or condition.

Exemplary Terms

As used herein, the terms “comprising,” “including,” and “such as” are used in their open, non-limiting sense.

The term “about” is used synonymously with the term “approximately.” Illustratively, the use of the term “about” indicates that values slightly outside the cited values, i.e., plus or minus 0.1% to 10%, which are also effective and safe.

“Antioxidants” include, e.g., butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), sodium ascorbate, and tocopherol.

“Binders” impart cohesive qualities and include, e.g., alginic acid and salts thereof; cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethylcellulose, methylcellulose (e.g., Methocel®), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose (e.g., Klucel®), ethylcellulose (e.g., Ethocel®), and microcrystalline cellulose (e.g., Avicel®); microcrystalline dextrose; amylose; magnesium aluminum silicate; polysaccharide acids; bentonites; gelatin; polyvinylpyrrolidone/vinyl acetate copolymer; crospovidone; povidone; starch; pregelatinized starch; tragacanth, dextrin, a sugar, such as sucrose (e.g., Dipac®), glucose, dextrose, molasses, mannitol, sorbitol, xylitol (e.g., Xylitab®), and lactose; a natural or synthetic gum such as acacia, tragacanth, ghatti gum, mucilage of isapol husks, polyvinylpyrrolidone (e.g., Polyvidone®, CL, Kollidon® CL, Polyplasdone® XL-10), larch arabogalactan, Veegum®, polyethylene glycol, waxes, sodium alginate, and the like.

“Bioavailability” refers to the extent to which an active moiety, e.g., drug, prodrug, or metabolite, is absorbed into the general circulation and becomes available at the site of drug action in the body. Thus, a compound administered through IV is 100% bioavailable. “Oral bioavailability” refers to the extent to with the compound is absorbed into the general circulation and becomes available at the site of the drug action in the body when a compound is taken orally.

“Carrier materials” include any commonly used excipients in pharmaceutics and should be selected on the basis of compatibility with the active ingredient and the release profile properties of the desired dosage form. Exemplary carrier materials include, e.g., binders, suspending agents, disintegration agents, filling agents, surfactants, solubilizers, stabilizers, lubricants, wetting agents, diluents, and the like. See, e.g., Remington: The Science and Practice of Pharmacy, Nineteenth Ed (Easton, Pa.: Mack Publishing Company, 1995); Hoover, John E., Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mack Publishing Co., Easton, Pa. 1975; Liberman, H. A. and Lachman, L., Eds., Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Marcel Decker, New York, N.Y., 1980; and Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Drug Delivery Systems, Seventh Ed. (Lippincott William & Wilkins 1999).

“Oxidative stress” refers to the condition characterized by an excess of oxidants and/or a decrease in antioxidant levels. Cellular oxidants include, but are not limited to, one or more of: radicals of oxygen (superoxide anion, hydroxyl radical, and/or peroxy radicals); reactive non-radical oxygen species such as, for example, hydrogen peroxide and singlet oxygen; carbon radicals; nitrogen radicals; and sulfur radicals. The condition of oxidative stress results in, for example, cellular damage, inflammation, impaired performance of cells and/or cell death.

“Prevent” or “prevention” means no disorder or disease development if none had occurred, or no further disorder or disease development if there had already been development. Also considered is the ability of one to prevent or reduce some or all of the symptoms associated with the disorder or disease.

“Surfactants” include compounds such as sodium lauryl sulfate, sorbitan monooleate, polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate, polysorbates, polaxomers, bile salts, glyceryl monostearate, copolymers of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, e.g., Pluronic® (BASF); and the like.

A “therapeutically effective amount” or “effective amount” is that amount of a compound, material, composition, and/or dosage form as described herein that is in at least some cases effective to achieve a particular biological result. Such results in at least some cases include, but are not limited to, reduction and/or prevention of oxidative stress. Such effective activity is achieved in at least some cases, for example, by causing the ingestion of compositions according to aspects of the present disclosure. The term “therapeutically effective amount” includes, for example, a prophylactically effective amount. An “effective amount” is an amount effective to achieve a desired pharmacologic effect or therapeutic improvement without undue adverse side effects. The effective amount of a pharmaceutical agent will be selected by those skilled in the art depending on the particular patient and the disease level. It is understood that “an effective amount” or “a therapeutically effective amount” varies in at least some cases from subject to subject, due to variation in metabolism of therapeutic agents, age, weight, general condition of the subject, the condition being treated, the severity of the condition being treated, and the judgment of the prescribing physician.

“Treat” or “treatment” includes preventing a disorder or disease from occurring in a subject which may be predisposed to the disorder or disease, but has not yet been diagnosed as having the disorder or disease; inhibiting the disorder or disease, e.g., arresting the development of the disorder or disease, relieving the disorder or disease, causing regression (or partial regression) of the disorder or disease, relieving a condition caused by the disease or disorder, stopping the symptoms of the disease or disorder, or reversing or partially reversing certain diseases and/or conditions. Thus, as used herein, the term “treat” is used synonymously with the term “prevent.”

Oxidative Stress Cycle

Oxidative stress processes often have a self-regenerating nature. For example, oxidative stress leads to further oxidative stress and the cycle reinforces itself. By way of example only, moderate H₂O₂ or OH⁻ disrupts the mitochondria of cells causing an increase of superoxide anion production. Disruption of mitochondria leads to increased hydrogen peroxide production and the effect becomes exponentially self-regenerating. This often results in a severe disorder. Disruption of an oxidative stress cycle allows natural mechanisms to address the source of the initial oxidative stress.

In certain instances, increased or undesired peroxide levels in a tissue (for example, ocular tissue) results from the inactivation (in a reversible reaction) of endogenous catalase by nitric oxide. Catalase activity is affected by the presence of nitric oxide which binds to the active center of catalase. When the nitric oxide molecule is present the catalase is unable to attach itself to a peroxide molecule. As the partial pressure of nitric oxide gas in the tissue drops, the nitric oxide dissociates from the catalase and the catalase becomes active again. Thus nitric oxide is a reversible inhibitor of catalase.

Inactivation of catalase results in the build-up of peroxide which results in damage to a tissue and an inflammatory response. As the inflammatory response increases, more nitric oxide is produced rendering more catalase inactive and increasing the concentration of peroxide. Because nitric oxide prevents the catalase from working, adding additional catalase often does not fully inhibit or sufficiently reduce peroxide build-up. In some embodiments, iodide ion inhibits the build-up of peroxide because the iodide ion is not subject to inactivation by nitric oxide.

There are a number of agents that inactivate catalase, and result in the build-up of the oxidative cycle and cell death. For example, many chemotherapeutic agents are designed to activate or increase the oxidative cycle. Calcitriol, a catalase inhibitor, is used to kill cancer cells by peroxide build up.

Pharmaceutical Compositions

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are compositions for reducing oxidative stress, comprising iodide ion and a pharmaceutically-acceptable excipient. In some embodiments, the composition comprises sodium iodide (NaI), catalase or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the composition comprises between about 0.001% to about 10.0% sodium iodide by weight. In specific embodiments, the composition comprises between about 0.015% to about 5% sodium iodide by weight. In some embodiments, the iodide ion is kept in the ionized form by maintaining the composition at a basic pH. In some specific embodiments the pH of the composition is between about 7.0 and about 8.4. In some embodiments, the composition is safe. In some embodiments, the composition lessens oxidative stress in vivo. Included in the embodiments described herein are all combinations and subcombinations of ranges and specific integers encompassed therein.

In some embodiments, the compositions disclosed herein react as follows: H₂O₂(aq)+I⁻(aq)→IO⁻(aq)+H₂O(l)  Step 1 H₂O₂(aq)+IO⁻(aq)→I⁻(aq)+H₂O(l)+O₂(g)  Step 2

These equations describe the reaction that occurs between iodide ion and hydrogen peroxide in basic solutions (pH of 7.0 or higher). The net result of the above equations is: 2H₂O₂+I⁻→2H₂O+O₂+I⁻

This illustrates the iodide ion is just a catalyst and is unchanged during the reaction. Iodide ion is a catalyst to break hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen in non-acidic solutions, but in acidic solutions the following reaction occurs: H₂O₂(aq)+3I⁻(aq)+2H⁺→I₂(aq)+2H₂O+I⁻

In oxidizing acid solutions the reaction of iodide ion and peroxide (referred to in the chemical literature as the Iodide Clock Reaction) will precipitate elemental iodide out of solution.

In some embodiments of the pharmaceutical compositions described herein, a reducing agent is included. Non-limiting examples of reducing agents include sodium thiosulfate, vitamin C or sodium bisulfite.

Below is an example of the reaction of iodide with the thiosulfate: I₂(aq)+2S₂O₃ ²⁻(aq)→S₄O₆ ²⁻(aq)+2I⁻(aq)

An advantage of an iodide ion as a peroxide reducing agent in inflamed tissue is that it is not persistent in the tissue. Once the peroxide cycle has been broken and inflammation subsides the NO pressure drops and the native catalase keeps the peroxide at a normal basal level. In some embodiments, other enzymes also begin to work once the peroxide levels drop.

The compositions described herein are administered and dosed in accordance with good medical practice, taking into account the clinical condition of the individual patient, the site and method of administration, scheduling of administration, and other factors known to medical practitioners. In human therapy, it is important in many cases to provide a dosage form that delivers the required therapeutic amount of the drug in vivo, and renders the drug bioavailable in a timely manner.

Treatment dosages generally are titrated to optimize safety and efficacy. Typically, dosage-effect relationships from in vitro and/or in vivo tests initially provide useful guidance on the proper doses for subject administration. Studies in animal models generally are used for guidance regarding effective dosages for treatment of the conditions, disorders or diseases in accordance with the present disclosure. In terms of treatment protocols, it should be appreciated that the dosage to be administered will depend on several factors, including the particular agent that is administered, the route chosen for administration, the age of the subject, and the condition of the particular subject.

In some embodiments, unit dosage forms of the pharmaceutical compositions disclosed herein comprise between about 0.001% to 10.0% sodium iodide by weight. In specific embodiments, the pharmaceutical compositions comprise between about 0.015% to about 5% sodium iodide by weight. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical compositions comprise about 0.001%, about 0.01%, about 0.1%, about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, or about 10% sodium iodide by weight. Included in these embodiments are all combinations and subcombinations of ranges and specific integers encompassed therein.

Generally speaking, one will desire a pharmaceutical composition that provides an amount of an iodide ion that is effective to achieve the therapeutic effect desired when administered to a subject. Determination of these parameters is well within the skill of the art. These considerations are well known in the art and are described in standard textbooks.

Photochemical Crosslinking Compositions

Described herein are compositions for photochemical crosslinking comprising (1) riboflavin, and (2) an iodide ion and/or catalase. In some embodiments, the compositions are saturated with oxygen. In some embodiments, the compositions comprise a higher oxygen content than existing compositions. In some embodiments, the compositions further comprise artificial tear solutions, for example to keep the eye hydrated during the procedure or to reoxygenate the eye during the procedure. In some embodiments, the compositions further comprise a high lipid solution (or other ingredient) for reoxygenation. In some embodiments, the iodide ion and/or catalase enzyme serve to decompose hydrogen peroxide into water and molecular oxygen.

Iodide ions are small and mobile and exhibit little difficulty getting into the corneal stroma where the crosslinking takes place. Iodide ions also exhibit rapid diffusion and lack of post-procedural persistence. Catalase is a large enzyme and as a result it is difficult for the catalase to penetrate into the corneal stroma where the crosslinking takes place. When a catalase enzyme is used, steps must be taken early in the crosslinking procedure to disrupt the barrier functions of the corneal epithelium for riboflavin infusion. This reduced barrier function also allows easy introduction of the iodide ion. Non-limiting examples of epithelial barrier disruption include mechanical treatments and the use of chemicals such as benzylalkonium chloride.

Catalase enzyme is excellent for the decomposition of the peroxide in the following ways; it's naturally found in tissue and cells, it's not pH sensitive, and it doesn't quench the photochemical reaction between riboflavin and UV/blue light. Catalase enzyme works well in photochemical crosslinking compositions disclosed herein to protect the viability of the riboflavin against oxidation during storage and transport, and work well on the corneal epithelium to protect the epithelium from peroxide damage.

Topical Formulations

In some embodiments of the disclosure described herein, the pharmaceutical composition is a topical formulation comprising an iodide ion and at least one carrier material. Non-limiting examples of carrier materials useful in the topical formulations disclosed herein are: thickeners, including gums, celluloses, acrylic acids, colloidal solids, hydrogels, and thermoreversible polymers; oil phases; surfactants, including non-ionic, anionic, and cationic; solvents, including polar and non-polar; preservatives, including antimicrobial, antioxidants and chelating agents; and pH adjustors, such as diethanolamine, lactic acid, monoethanolamine, triethanolamine, sodium hydroxide and sodium phosphate.

In various embodiments, the topical formulation is formulated for direct application to a body surface including but not limited to the skin or mucous membranes such as the vagina, anus, throat, eyes and ears. In some embodiments, the topical formulation is epicutaneous, i.e. directly applied to the skin. In various embodiments, the topical formulation is in the form of a cream, ointment, shake lotion, gel, powder, solid, transdermal patch, tincture, paste, vapor, tape, sponge or lotion.

Intravenous Formulations

In some embodiments of the disclosure described herein, the pharmaceutical composition is an intravenous formulation comprising an iodide ion and at least one carrier material. Non-limiting examples of carrier materials useful in the intravenous formulations disclosed herein are surfactants, including non-ionic, anionic, and cationic; solvents, including polar and non-polar; preservatives, including antimicrobial, antioxidants and chelating agents; and pH adjustors, such as diethanolamine, lactic acid, monoethanolamine, triethanolamine, sodium hydroxide and sodium phosphate.

Iontophoresis Delivery

In some embodiments of the disclosure described herein, the pharmaceutical composition is delivered through iontophoresis. In these embodiments, two electrodes are placed in contact with tissue, one of the electrodes being a pad of absorbent material soaked with a solution containing the iodide ion, and a voltage is applied between the electrodes to deliver the ion to the subject.

Sustained Release Formulations

In some embodiments of the disclosure described herein, the pharmaceutical composition is a sustained release formulation comprising an iodide ion and at least one carrier material. Non-limiting examples of carrier materials useful in the sustained release formulations disclosed herein are: enteric coatings, thickeners, including gums, celluloses, acrylic acids, colloidal solids, hydrogels, and thermoreversible polymers; oil phases; surfactants, including non-ionic, anionic, and cationic; solvents, including polar and non-polar; preservatives, including antimicrobial, antioxidants and chelating agents; and pH adjustors, such as diethanolamine, lactic acid, monoethanolamine, triethanolamine, sodium hydroxide and sodium phosphate.

In various embodiments, the sustained release formulation is an ophthalmic formulation, a parenteral formulation, a pellet formulation, or a transdermal formulation.

In some embodiments, the sustained release ophthalmic formulation comprises a water-based gel, a suspension, an ointment, an ocular insert, or small colloidal carrier particles (such as liposomes, microspheres, microcapsules, nanoparticles, or nanocapsules). In some embodiments, the sustained release parenteral formulation comprises an oily vehicle, aqueous suspension, emulsion, microsphere, or an implantable drug delivery system. In some embodiments, the sustained release transdermal formulation comprises an iodide ion in an adhesive layer, a polymeric matrix layer, a reservoir layer or a peripheral adhesive layer.

Implants

In some embodiments of the disclosure described herein, the pharmaceutical composition is delivered through an implant comprising an iodide ion and at least one carrier material. In various embodiments, the implant is composed of a number of capsules. In some embodiments the implant is biodegradable.

Methods of Treatment

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are methods of reducing or preventing oxidative stress processes in an individual in need thereof, comprising administering to the individual a composition comprising sodium iodide, catalase, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the method comprises administering a composition comprising between about 0.001% to about 10.0% sodium iodide by weight. In some embodiments, the method comprises administering a composition comprising between about 0.015% to about 5% sodium iodide by weight. In some embodiments, the composition has a basic pH. In some embodiments, the pH of the composition is between about 7.0 and about 8.4.

As discussed above, increased or undesired peroxide levels in a tissue (for example, ocular tissue) results from the inactivation (in a reversible reaction) of endogenous catalase by nitric oxide. The inactivation of catalase is associated with the destruction of nerve cells (glaucoma), retinal macular cells (AMD), lacrimal and epithelial cells (dry eye) and lens cells (cataract). In some embodiments, the methods described herein replace or supplement the function of inactivated catalase. In some embodiments, supplementation or replacement of catalase activity reduces or prevents oxidative stress processes.

In certain instances, peroxide inhibits or reduces the activity of enzymes needed for the proper functioning of a cell. In certain instances, these effects are reversible when the peroxide levels are lowered. In some embodiments, the methods described herein reverse the effects of undesired peroxide.

Photochemical Crosslinking

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are methods of reducing or preventing oxidative stress processes in a tissue undergoing photochemical crosslinking, comprising administering to the tissue a composition comprising sodium iodide, catalase, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the method comprises administering a composition comprising between about 0.001% to about 10.0% sodium iodide by weight. In some embodiments, the method comprises administering a composition comprising between about 0.015% to about 5% sodium iodide by weight. In some embodiments, the composition has a basic pH. In some embodiments, the pH of the composition is between about 7.0 and about 8.4. In some embodiments, the tissue is a cornea. In some embodiments, the tissue is sclera.

In some embodiments, photochemical crosslinking further comprises removing the epithelium of the cornea and/or sclera, pretreating the cornea and/or sclera with chemicals (or utilizing other means to increase permeability of the surface of the cornea) before the tissue is irradiated. In some embodiments, pretreatment allows riboflavin and the iodide ions to readily penetrate into the stroma for crosslinking.

Diseases

Further disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are methods of treating diseases, disorders or conditions associated with oxidative stress processes in an individual in need thereof, comprising administering to the individual a composition comprising sodium iodide, catalase, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the method comprises administering a composition comprising between about 0.001% to about 10.0% sodium iodide by weight. In some embodiments, the method comprises administering a composition comprising between about 0.015% to about 5% sodium iodide by weight. In some embodiments, the composition has a basic pH. In some embodiments, the pH of the composition is between about 7.0 and about 8.4.

Non-limiting examples of diseases and disorders for which the iodide-based solutions described here are useful include glaucoma, macular degeneration (wet and dry), cataract formation, keratoconus, cystoid macular edema, dry eye syndrome and quite a few more. In general, these conditions are described as oxidative ophthalmic disorders and the purpose of the pharmaceutical compositions described herein is to provide therapeutic relief to patients suffering from oxidative disorders by removal of peroxides. These applications are not specific to a particular anatomical part of the eye and in some embodiments are used to treat any ocular tissues that are exhibiting a pathogenesis of oxidative stress including but not limited to inflammation. In some embodiments, some of these conditions lead to irreversible vision loss and there are no current drugs or treatments available for some of these conditions.

In some embodiments the pharmaceutical compositions described herein is used to treat macular, retinal or scleral disorders. The compositions disclosed herein are introduced into an eye by any suitable methods. In these embodiments, the iodide ion is introduced by injection of iodide ion into the vitreous humor, using trans-scleral methods or implants of time released capsules or impregnated depot devices that slowly dissolve the iodide ion into the different chambers/parts of the eye.

In yet other embodiments, the pharmaceutical compositions described herein are used to treat other organ disorders, including the lungs, cardiovascular system and the brain. Amyloid beta formed in brain tissues inactivates catalase and the resulting hydrogen peroxide production is associated with Alzheimer's disease. Pharmaceutical compositions that allow an iodide ion to pass the blood-brain barrier are provided herein and are used in some embodiments to treat neurological disorders associated with oxidative stress.

Ectasia

Further disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, are methods of treating ectasia in a subject in need thereof, comprising administering to the subject a composition comprising sodium iodide, catalase, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the method comprises administering a composition comprising between about 0.001% to about 10.0% sodium iodide by weight. In some embodiments, the method comprises administering a composition comprising between about 0.015% to about 5% sodium iodide by weight. In some embodiments, the composition has a basic pH. In some embodiments, the pH of the composition is between about 7.0 and about 8.4.

In many post-operative surgical procedures negative side effects to the cornea and/or sclera are observed due to biological reactions termed “wound healing response”. This wound healing response is the body's way of forming protective scar tissues when injury has been done.

In the cornea and/or sclera, the wound healing response is initiated by the surgical intervention. The primary means of orchestrating the wound healing response is by several cytokines that are released as result of the injury. These cytokines often use H₂O₂ as the secondary messenger molecules for stimulating the production of the new scar tissue, promoting edema, and changing the cellular functioning.

The corneal and scleral wound healing cycles are in at least some cases interrupted by adding an iodide ion or catalase into the eye before or shortly after the wound healing response begins. In some embodiments, iodide ion or catalase interrupts the corneal or scleral wound healing cycles. In some embodiments, dissociating H₂O₂ into water and molecular oxygen interrupts the corneal or scleral wound healing cycles. This interruption breaks the cascade of biological events that results in undesired side effects.

The cornea is particularly sensitive to oxidative stress. Hydrogen peroxide reacts with ambient UV and visible light in the blue spectrum to break apart into 2 OH⁻ ions, which are the most destructive forms of ROS in the body.

The methods, compounds, and compositions described herein find use in the treatment of conditions characterized by oxidative stress or damage. As discussed infra, oxidative damage plays a role in the pathogenesis of many diseases. Non-limiting examples of diseases known to be associated with oxidative stress and therefore useful in the present disclosure are provided below.

Additional Ophthalmic Indications

In aspects of the disclosure, the methods and compositions described herein are beneficial in the treatment of ophthalmic conditions/diseases associated with oxidative stress. These conditions/diseases include, but are not limited to Glaucoma; Reduction of Inflammation; Dry Eyes; Degenerative Retinal Damage (ARMD); Cataractogenesis (process of cataract formation); Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP); Ocular Uveitis; and Senile Cataracts.

Skin Indications

There are a number of skin conditions where the buildup of peroxide in the skin is of concern. For example, vitiligo affects nearly 2% of the world population and is one of the more difficult skin disorders to treat. It is known that vitiligo lesions contain very high levels of hydrogen peroxide and it has been suggested that hydrogen peroxide or nitric oxide buildup is the root cause of the disorder. The use of the pharmaceutical compositions described herein provide an improved method for decomposing hydrogen peroxide in the skin for vitiligo and other pigmentation disorders. In various embodiments the pharmaceutical composition introduces the iodide ion to the skin by topical administration, injection or iontophoresis.

Other skin disorders associated with hydrogen peroxide build up in the skin are androgenic alopecia (loss of hair) and the premature onset of gray hair. It has been demonstrated that superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide build up is directly associated with both the onset of gray hair and androgenic alopecia. Provided herein, are compositions that treat gray hair or hair loss through the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. In various embodiments, these compositions introduce an iodide ion to the skin by topical administration, injection, or iontophoresis.

In aspects of the disclosure, the methods and compositions described herein are useful in reversing, preventing or reducing detrimental skin conditions associated with oxidative stress. These conditions include, but are not limited to, premature aging, burns, Dermatitis; Psoriasis; Vitiligo, Androgenic Alopecia (loss of hair) and Onset of Gray Hair.

Joint Indications

In aspects of the disclosure, the methods and compositions described herein may be useful in reversing, treating or preventing joint conditions/diseases associated with oxidative stress. These conditions include, but are not limited to, Inflammation; Rheumatoid Arthritis; and Osteoarthritis.

Wound Healing Indications

In aspects of the disclosure, the methods and compositions described herein are useful in reversing, treating or preventing ocular wounds associated with oxidative stress. These conditions include, but are not limited to, pterygium, glaucoma, refractive corneal surgery such as PRK, LASIK, Intacs, lamellar corneal procedures, CK, and other thermokeratoplasty treatments and lens based refractive surgery, scleral surgery, retinal surgery or retinal or glaucoma laser surgery and intraocular such as cataract and eye lid surgery.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is applied before or immediately after refractive surgeries in order to accelerate healing process. In other embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is applied multiple times during the healing process. For example, following painful procedures, like PRK in which the epithelium is not healed, the pharmaceutical composition are applied periodically (weekly, daily or hourly) early in the postoperative period. In specific embodiments, a contact lens or bandage is impregnated with the iodide ion or catalase.

Heart Indications

In aspects of the disclosure, the methods and compositions described herein are useful in reversing, treating or preventing heart conditions/diseases associated with oxidative stress. These conditions include, but are not limited to, Angioplasty; Keshan Disease (Selenium Deficiency); Myocardial Infarction; Atherosclerosis (ASVD) and Arterial Sclerosis.

Lung Indications

In aspects of the disclosure, the methods and compositions described herein are useful in reversing, treating or preventing lung conditions/diseases associated with oxidative stress. These conditions include, but are not limited to, Asthma; Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS); Hyperoxia and Pulmonary Edema.

Local or Systemic Indications

In aspects of the disclosure, the methods and compositions described herein are useful in reversing, treating or preventing local and systemic conditions/diseases associated with oxidative stress. These conditions include, but are not limited to, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD); Crohn's Disease; Ischemic Bowel Disease; Cancer; Inflammatory Immune Response; Diabetes; Injury Ischemia Reflow Injury; Vasospasm; Hemolytic Anemia; Progeria and Progressive Systemic Sclerosis.

Kidney & Liver Indications

In aspects of the disclosure, the methods and compositions described herein are useful in reversing, treating or preventing kidney and liver conditions/diseases associated with oxidative stress. These conditions include, but are not limited to, Hepatic Cirrhosis; Renal Graft; Glomerulonephritis and Endotoxin Liver Injury.

Neurological Indications

In aspects of the disclosure, the methods and compositions described herein are useful in reversing, treating or preventing neurological conditions/diseases associated with oxidative stress. These conditions include, but are not limited to, Parkinson's Disease; Alzheimer's Disease; Schizophrenia; Cerebral Edema; Cerebral Infarction (Stroke); Epilepsy; Bipolar Disorder; Trauma and Neurotoxins.

Aging-Related Indications

In aspects of the disclosure, the methods and compositions described herein are useful in reversing, treating or preventing diseases and symptoms associated with aging. These conditions include, but are not limited to, wrinkling, grey hair, baldness, presbyopia, cataracts, hearing loss, hypertension, and memory loss.

The above description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the methods and compositions of the present disclosure. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles described herein can be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Thus, it is to be understood that the description and drawings presented herein represent a presently preferred embodiment of the disclosure and are therefore representative of the subject matter which is broadly contemplated by the present disclosure. It is further understood that the scope of the present disclosure fully encompasses other embodiments that may become obvious to those skilled in the art and that the scope of the present disclosure is accordingly not limited.

EXAMPLES

Corneal collagen cross-linking utilizing 0.5% riboflavin and 0.015% (1 mmol) sodium iodide was performed in over 200 eyes. Post-operative corneal haze, which results from keratocyte death due to the production of hydrogen peroxide and other harmful reactive oxygen species, was observed to be minimal, as compared to historical cross-linking procedures performed without sodium iodide, in which significant corneal haze has been observed to persist from 6 months to 1 year after the cross-linking procedure. 

What is claimed:
 1. A stable pharmaceutical composition for use in corneal collagen cross-linking, comprising (a) between about 0.015% to about 5% sodium iodide by weight, (b) riboflavin, and (c) a pharmaceutically-acceptable excipient appropriate for ocular administration, wherein the pharmaceutical composition maintains a basic pH that permits iodide ion to catalytically break hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen.
 2. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises about 0.015% sodium iodide by weight.
 3. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1, wherein the basic pH is between 7 and 8.4.
 4. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 3, further comprising a reducing agent.
 5. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 4, wherein the reducing agent is thiosulfate, vitamin C, or sodium bisulfate.
 6. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1, wherein the pharmaceutically-acceptable excipient is an artificial tear solution.
 7. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1, wherein the pharmaceutical composition is a solution adapted for introduction into the eye and diffusion into the cornea for promoting photochemical corneal cross-linking and reducing oxidative stress.
 8. A stable pharmaceutical composition, comprising 0.015% sodium iodide by weight and 0.5% riboflavin by weight, and wherein the pharmaceutical composition maintains a basic pH that permits iodide ions to catalytically break hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen.
 9. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1, further comprising 0.5% riboflavin by weight.
 10. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 2, further comprising 0.5% riboflavin by weight. 